2017 UP LAW COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES: A CALL FOR REFORM

The University of the Philippines College of Law 2017 Commencement Exercises was held last June 26, 2017, with a conferment of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, upon Sen. Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III, the current Senate President.

In the course of the ceremony, both Senator Pimentel and the class valedictorian, Carlos Hernandez, Jr., voiced their concern on the flaws of the current judiciary system, particularly for the underprivileged, and the struggle for the dignity and strength to uphold the rule of law at all costs.

Hernandez stated: "The people have lost faith in a system they rightly perceive as highly legalistic, always in delay, and serving only the interests of the rich and the powerful."

"Do not be part of the problem. Be part of the solution," the 118 fresh graduates were urged by Senator Pimentel in his Commencement Address.